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East Coast Cruises

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Luxury Cruises Along the East Coast of the U.S. & Canada

Explore the shores of Canada, New England, and the greater Atlantic seaboard on a luxury East Coast cruise with Celebrity. These itineraries offer boundless opportunities to explore charming seaside towns, witness the colorful explosion of fall foliage, and enjoy fresh seafood on the shoreline. You'll travel from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to white sand beaches, national monuments, and world-renowned restaurants on these fantastic itineraries.

Discover the rocky cliffs of Maine’s Acadia National Park. Visit the Waterfront Boardwalk in Halifax, and on voyages that call at the subtropical island of Bermuda, bask on exquisite pink sand beaches. East coast cruises also stop at ports like Martha's Vineyard, Quebec City, Boston, Charlottetown, and more, with itineraries spanning the best-loved destinations on the Atlantic coast and islands. Enjoy the luxury journey of a lifetime on an East Coast cruise with Celebrity.

East Coast Cruise Highlights

Fall foliage.

One of the most popular times to join an East Coast cruise is during the autumn months when the northeast area of the U.S. and southeast region of Canada are awash in colorful fall foliage. See the trees decked out in shades of vibrant red, orange, and yellow when sailing by forested coastlines or exploring the ports of call.

Historic Cities

East coast cruises will take you to some of the most beautiful and historic cities in the United States and Canada. In Boston, visit the Freedom Trail and see sites like the Paul Revere House. In Halifax, tour the historic properties of the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. In Quebec City, stroll the winding streets of Old Quebec and visit iconic landmarks like the Château Frontenac.

Lighthouses

The eastern coastline of the United States and Canada is dotted with historic lighthouses, each of which tells a story, as well as creating a wonderful photo opportunity. Lighthouses you won’t want to miss include Portland Head Lighthouse in Portland, Maine; and Peggy’s Point Lighthouse in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Featured East Coast Cruise Ports

Boston, Massachusetts

Portland, Maine

Rockland, Maine

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Quebec City, Quebec

Charlottetown, P.E.I.

St. John, NB

Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda

East Coast Cruise Itineraries

Celebrity’s East Coast itineraries mostly depart from Boston, heading through New England and Canada. Cruises to Bermuda depart from Cape Liberty, New Jersey—and several transatlantic itineraries also visit the island. East Coast cruises last for 7 to 15 nights and call at ports throughout the North American Atlantic coast, such as Rockland, Maine; Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia; Quebec City, Quebec; and many more.

Itineraries

Why cruise to the east coast with celebrity cruises.

East Coast cruises with Celebrity are full of adventure, with days at sea offering you the best in service, entertainment, and style at every turn. Enjoy world-class dining in the inviting specialty restaurants on board. Join a class in the Fitness Center, or take in the sea air on the outdoor jogging track, and then relax in The Spa before sunset cocktails on deck. Book The Retreat for the utmost luxury at sea, which includes suite accommodation, access to exclusive spaces, and fine dining at Luminae.

On these fabulous East Coast cruises, you could visit places including Old Quebec, where you can explore the walled city's French cultural charm and heritage. In Martha's Vineyard, tour the famous Edgartown Lighthouse. On the coast of Maine, in Rockport, take in picturesque views of Cape Ann before tasting delicious fresh-caught lobsters. On the island of Bermuda, you’ll have access to top-rated golf courses, quaint villages, and pink sand beaches. With so many great itineraries for the East Coast, you'll have the vacation of a lifetime on any of these luxury cruises.

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Maine Coast & Harbors – Independence

Maine | History, Industry and Wonder. The beauty of Maine is more than the scenic rivers or majestic national parks; it’s more than the granite mountains or sparkling bays; it’s more than the Greek revival architecture, lobster dinners, or the ships in the harbor; it’s more than the small towns or the tall schooners or the shipyards or the fishing. There is no one thing that makes Maine a beautiful cruise destination, but all of these combined into a magnificent intangible that opens your eyes, mind and heart in wonder to the breathtaking amazement that is Maine.

Ports of Call: Portland, Maine | Bar Harbor | Bangor | Camden | Rockland | Boothbay Harbor | Bath

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*Per person/double occupancy. Special single rates apply where listed. Excludes port fees. Itineraries may operate in reverse.

Your Itinerary

1 Embark in Portland, ME Get settled onboard, then head up on the sun deck to look for whales. Or take your camera for the best views of Portland’s Old Port district.

2 Bar Harbor, ME Located on Mt. Desert Island, you have to take your camera to Acadia National Park. The views are stunning! Visit the summit of Cadillac Mountain – the first of US soil that sees the morning sun – and watch the waves spout as high as 40 feet at Thunder Hole. Ride with an expert naturalist in search of harbor seals, eagles, and other indigenous wildlife. If you’d rather not visit nature today, explore the town of Bar Harbor. Stop in Atlantic Brewing Company, open for tastings 10am-5pm daily. Onboard, we’ll enjoy Jazzou Jones on the piano playing vintage all-American ragtime music, and some of his own composition.

3 Bucksport, ME Explore the historic seaport town of Bucksport, with a beautiful waterfront ornamented with scenic gardens and reflective fountains. Bucksport was a central hub for paper-making industry once upon a time. Though, the town’s paper mill closed in 2014, it now serves as a training center for the Maine Maritime Academy. The town is also particularly well-known for the Penobscot River and the iconic Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, which is taller than the Statue of Liberty. From this vantage point, view spectacular 360-degree views of the Bay, the Maine countryside, and the distant western mountains.

4 Camden, ME Camden is the ‘tall ship capital of Maine’, with its harbor full of classic schooners, as well as the ‘Jewel of the Coast.’ Enjoy a narrated bus tour of the town, driving through Camden Hills State Park, stopping for a photo op at Mt. Battie with panoramic views of the harbor and bay. Onboard, Steve Hale will give you a glimpse of what it means to be a real Maine lobster man, discussing the lobster-catching business from painting buoys, baiting traps, and bringing in the haul. This will be a great introduction before tomorrow’s Lobsterbake Luncheon!

5 Rockland, ME It’s Rockland, so it’s lobster day! Take a ride on Captain Jack’s Lobsterboat to see the process in action. On the shore of Penobscot Bay, we’ll enjoy a lobsterbake lunch, with local lobster, clams and mussels… we’ll eat under a covered tent, listening to local entertainers. The perfect Maine experience! Other Rockland treasures include the Farnsworth Art Museum, Owls Head Transportation Museum, or make yourself an appointment with Breakwater Kayak Co. for safe and fun kayaking of Penobscot Bay.

6 Boothbay Harbor, ME Boothbay Harbor’s boating industry is equally divided by fishing and recreation, which makes the town the ‘Boating Capital of New England.’ In town, you’ll find art galleries, specialty shops, antique stores and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

7 Bath, ME Bath’s roots lie in the shipbuilding industry. It strongly identifies the town’s persona. Explore Bath’s rich seafaring history at the Maine Maritime Museum, including what life was like for a shipbuilder’s family during the 1890s. For our last evening together, we’ll enjoy the piano stylings of Roberta DeMuro – she takes requests!

8 Disembark in Portland, ME Talk to our small ship experts about lengthening your vacation with a post-cruise stay in Portland. This city has so much to offer, and you’ve hardly had time to see more than the airport! Tour the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Musuem, the Portland Museum of Art, Portland Observatory, Victoria Mansion, and so much more!

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Onboard Experience

The American Cruise Line fleet of ships are the newest and most environmentally friendly small ships in the US. The cruise line prides itself on their hospitable staff, and that you’ll be graciously received no matter which ship you cruise on. The large staterooms with interior entrances ensure you have a relaxed, private area to watch the river from, or visit any of the many onboard lounges. Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists.

Regionally-Inspired Menus

American Cruise Lines uses fresh, local ingredients to show off the culinary glory of the region you’re cruising in. On the Mississippi River, that could mean Andouille Gumbo, a po’boy with red beans and rice, and bourbon pecan pie. In New England, you could find Littleneck clam ceviche on the menu followed by a spiced apple pudding with maple whipped cream. In the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find fresh fish on the menu, including shrimp bisque or Dungeness Crab cake, and a marionberry cheesecake that’ll make your mouth water! Your ship will provide you with a list of all the locally-sourced ingredients when you unpack.

Eagle Society

Once you’ve cruised aboard any American Cruise Line ship, you are an Eagle Society member. It’s free to be a member, but your loyalty to American Cruise Lines is greatly rewarded. You’ll receive Eagle Society luggage tags, and member-only gifts when you board each cruise. After 3 cruises, you’ll receive complimentary premium shore excursions. After 10 cruises, you’ll get a complimentary 11th cruise. There are special Eagle Society cruise dates every year. Plus all Eagle Society member benefits can be used when booking with USA River Cruises, plus you’ll still be eligible for our loyal customer benefits as well.

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East Coast Cruises

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East Coast Cruises by Small Ship

Underpinned by a spirit of exploration, away from busy tourist ports, East Coast cruises by small ship discover an eastern seaboard that few travelers know exist and fewer still will ever experience. Our East Coast cruise experts help you choose the best routes and small ships. Navigate wild Southern barrier islands, rugged Northern coastlines, America’s largest estuary, and a serene river valley in their peak seasons for scenic beauty and wildlife encounters.

Actively discover remote communities, little-known islands, and pristine natural landscapes on the lookout for puffins, whales, sea turtles, seals and bald eagles. Kayak past lighthouses and fishing villages, stroll squares lined with graceful mansions and hike trails under a canopy of vivid fall foliage. Visit historic and cultural treasures and enjoy exceedingly fresh, locally sourced foods.

Set sail on these 8-day small ship Great Lakes cruises, operating in the colorful summer months. Cruise between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Toronto, Canada aboard 184-guest Le Bellot or Le Champlain. Along the way, appreciate points of natural and cultural interest, learning about the Native American and European influences that live on today.

From Toronto, set sail on a luxury French ship for unspoiled Canada and the North American coast. Sail Canada's scenic wildlands, cosmopolitan cities and historic seaport villages before ending in Massachusetts.

Embark the 148-guest National Geographic Explorer for a thrilling exploration of the far north’s ice-carved landscapes, sailing from Greenland to Newfoundland and Labrador. Seek out arctic wildlife such as polar bears, visit Inuit artisans and venture into breathtaking fjords.

East Coast Cruises with AdventureSmith

Let our experts be your guide to East Coast cruises and New England by small ship. We offer the confidence of booking with an award-winning company that understands your questions, concerns and needs. Why book your East Coast cruise with AdventureSmith?

Personalized

Work with one USA-based specialist to find, book & prepare for your East Coast cruise.

We are small ship cruise experts adept at helping you find the best cabin on the right cruise. 

East coast cruises include guided hiking, Zodiac rides, kayaking, bird and wildlife viewing.

Take advantage of deals and other East Coast cruise perks. We’re here to help you save.

Graphical map of the East Coast of the United States with pictures and text showing cruise highlights.

East Coast Cruise Highlights

East coast small ship cruise itineraries from Georgia to Maine discover uninhabited wild islands. Encounter whales, puffins, sea turtles and other incredible wildlife by kayak, Zodiac and picturesque hikes. From the rocky islets, forested waterfalls and lobster fishing villages of Maine to the windswept dunes, swamp forests and crabbing communities of South Carolina, East Coast cruises are a fascinating study in nature and history. 

Explore a surprising plethora of uninhabited islands teeming with wildlife. Outside the big cities lie remote islands and critical nesting and feeding grounds for sea turtles and puffins. Encounter 17 species of whales and rookeries with tens of thousands of gray seals. Time stands still in estuarian backwaters, secluded coves and island villages with no paved roads that preserve rare maritime cultures.  

The Hudson River with two bridges and forest foliage with fall colors and blue sky above.

New England Cruises

Near large New England cities are undeveloped islands that serve as critical resting, nesting and feeding grounds for migratory birds and mammals. Small ship New England cruises from New York City to Cape Cod explore little-known archipelagos and wildlife refuges while diving into local history and charming towns of New England.

New England cruises sail under the Brooklyn Bridge from New York to Massachusetts, exploring Long Island Sound. Seek out whales, explore picturesque seaside towns, lighthouses and scientific research stations. See historic whalers, schooners and the largest maritime museum in the world. New England cruises offer off-vessel hikes, kayaks and Zodiac cruises in pristine environments. 

Chesapeake Bay Cruises

Overnight small ship cruises in Chesapeake Bay explore the remote coves and islands of the largest estuary in America. The Chesapeake Bay watershed is home to millions of people, but very few have ventured into its beautiful backwaters.

Kayak in tidal wetlands, creeks and wildlife refuges that are sanctuaries for blue crabs and nesting seabirds. You’ll be astounded by thousands of animal and plant species that co-exist in a fragile ecosystem that’s on the mend due to incredible conservation efforts. With 12,000 miles of shoreline Chesapeake Bay cruises have many wild secrets to discover.

Maine Cruises

The coasts of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine are wild and rugged, scenic and rejuvenating. Whales and porpoise surface off the bow and Atlantic puffins nest in New England’s only national marine sanctuary. Discover tiny fishing villages with no paved roads and windswept places that inspired writers and artists. Maine cruises visit Portland, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park combined with an incredible array of wild islands.

Fall Foliage Cruises

Many East Coast cruises witness fall foliage and the magic of autumn’s transitional beauty. The best fall foliage cruises operate in October and November. Experience fall foliage cruises from New York City on the Hudson River. Immerse yourself in natural settings with guided walks led by experienced naturalist guides.

Cruises Out Of Charleston South Carolina

The eastern seaboard of Georgia and South Carolina harbors a wealth of wildlife habitats and fascinating cultural heritage. Small ship cruises out of Charleston explore the Low Country into a maze of barrier islands and wilderness, beaches, dunes and maritime forests. Watch for birdlife, alligators, dolphins and loggerhead turtles. Visit ruins of historic plantations and islands where West-African-influenced culture of the Gullah-Geechee people continues today.  

“East coast small ship cruise itineraries from Georgia to Maine discover uninhabited wild islands . ”

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

East Coast Small Cruise Ships

East Coast cruises aboard a small ship offer an intimate experience reaching places inaccessible to larger ships. Navigate craggy coastlines and barrier islands, venture into fast-moving channels to keep up with marine animal sightings, and sail into protected anchorages in small bays and estuaries perfect for kayaking. Comfortable public spaces encourage relaxation, and an open bridge lets guests meet the officers and captain and learn about navigation. Explore off the ship in the company of expert naturalist guides and historians.

The 184-guest Le Bellot is a modern, luxury expedition ship cruising the Arctic and Caribbean. She offers an upscale onboard ambiance, impressive service, and an engaging expedition program of both onboard lectures and off-ship excursions.

The 184-guest Le Dumont D'Urville is a sophisticated, luxury expedition ship cruising worldwide. Enjoy her natural ambiance, luxury service, engaging educational program and active excursions.

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. She is fully stabilized, enabling her to navigate polar passages while providing comfort.

East Coast Cruise Deals

Our experienced team can help you find the latest discounts and explain the ins-and-outs of East Coast cruises. From early-booking deals to discounts on new routes, browse for ways to save. The best East Coast small ship cruise is one where you enjoy authentic experiences at a relaxed pace, not just rush by as a tourist on the least expensive route.

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2024 or 2025 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on select 2024 and 2025 departures of the below-linked National Geographic expeditions.

Offer valid on new bookings only, for a limited time upon availability and may be combined with other select offers. Applicable on voyage fares only, not valid on extensions or airfare. Deposit, final payments, and cancellation policies for group travel vary from the standard policy. See all  cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

  • Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness
  • Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia
  • Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure
  • Great Bear Rainforest Cruise: The Land of the Spirit Bear
  • A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii
  • Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan
  • Wild Alaska Escape: Sitka & Juneau
  • Northwest Passage: Greenland to Alaska
  • High Arctic Archipelago: Canada & Greenland
  • Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands & Iceland
  • Norway’s Fjords & Arctic Svalbard
  • Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords Cruise
  • National Geographic Land of the Ice Bears
  • Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland’s East Coast Cruise
  • A Circumnavigation of Iceland
  • Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise
  • Iceland’s Wild West Coast to East Greenland Cruise
  • Baja California: Among The Great Whales
  • Baja California: A Remarkable Journey
  • A Southern Migration: From The Channel Islands to Baja California
  • Wild California Escape: Channel Islands National Park
  • Baja California Holiday Voyage: A Living Sea & Desert Isles
  • The Canadian Maritimes & Newfoundland
  • Fabled Lands of the North: Greenland to Newfoundland
  • Panama & Colombia: Exploring The Caribbean Coast
  • Sailing the Caribbean Aboard Sea Cloud
  • National Geographic Endeavour II Galapagos Cruises
  • National Geographic Wild Galapagos Escape Cruise
  • Best of Chilean Patagonia: From Torres del Paine to Cape Horn
  • Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island
  • Southern Patagonia: Glaciers, Fjords & Wildlife Cruise
  • Costa Rica & The Panama Canal
  • Mediterranean Gems: Southern Italy & Sicily Aboard Sea Cloud
  • Sailing the Greek Isles Aboard Sea Cloud
  • Isles of Antiquity: Malta, Sardinia & the Balearic Sea Aboard Sea Cloud
  • Corsica & Sardinia Aboard Sea Cloud
  • Sailing The Ancient Shores of Sicily & Malta
  • Under Sail: Greece & The Dalmatian Coast Aboard Sea Cloud
  • Scotland’s Highlands & Islands
  • Pearls of the Pacific: Exploring The Society & Tuamotu Islands
  • Rites & Relics: Fiji Firewalking, Vanuatu Volcanoes & Beyond
  • Fiji & Tahiti Adventure: Vibrant Reefs & Cultural History
  • Columbia & Snake Rivers Journey
  • Exploring British Columbia & The San Juan Islands
  • National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise
  • Vietnam & Cambodia: Along the Mekong River, Including Angkor & Saigon
  • Wild Costa Rica Escape: Guanacaste Cruise
  • National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands
  • National Geographic The White Continent
  • National Geographic South Georgia & The Falklands
  • Antarctica & Patagonia: Legendary Ice & Epic Fjords
  • Coastal New Zealand: Scenic Fjords, Māori History & Abundant Wildlife
  • Southern Odyssey: New Zealand & The Sub-Antarctic Islands
  • Roots of the Pacific: Exploring New Zealand & Melanesia
  • Kimberley Expedition: Northwest Australia & Indonesia
  • Exploring Indonesia: Bali, Raja Ampat & Papua New Guinea
  • Jewels of The Java Sea: An Exploration Between Bali & Singapore

Save $500 per kid under the age of 18 on select 2024 and 2025 departures of the below-linked National Geographic expeditions.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability, and may not be combined with other offers. See all  cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

  • Wild Iceland Escape
  • Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake

Expert Advice On East Coast Cruises

USA East Coast cruises are full of hidden treasures and off-the-beaten path locales. With so much to offer from Georgia to Maine it can be difficult to decide. Our experts are just a phone call away to assist you. Whether you are looking for an East Coast cruise from New York City, a New England cruise in Maine, or a New England cruise that also adds New Hampshire and Massachusetts, our expert staff can offer personalized advice for your travel style, budget and timing needs.

Contact Us - East Coast Cruises

Travel is best planned one-on-one, and we’re here to help you with your specific needs.

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11 best cruises to Canada and New England

Donna Heiderstadt

Canada and New England cruises are best known for taking mature travelers to experience vibrant autumnal foliage in multiple destinations.

However, the region's photogenic landscapes, charming ports and fresh local seafood make time ashore uniquely enjoyable for couples and families. Plus, late summer and early fall getaways can be convenient and affordable, especially if you already live on the East Coast.

New England and Canada cruises are mainly offered from late August through mid-October (although limited June and July dates are also available). They sail round trip from New York or Boston, or one-way between either city and Montreal or Quebec City.

Itinerary lengths for Canada and New England cruises range from seven to 11 nights. Ships typically call on ports in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, as well as Portland or Bar Harbor, Maine, or even Newport, Rhode Island. High-end, smaller-ship cruise lines may offer more in-depth itineraries of 11 to 15 nights, with more inclusions and higher price tags.

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It's important to book well in advance if you want to cruise during peak foliage weeks, generally late September to mid-October. Also, Newport, Bar Harbor and some lesser-visited ports on these itineraries do not have cruise piers; transferring to shore via tender boat can be time-consuming, if not difficult or impossible for passengers with mobility challenges.

Here are 11 of the best cruises to Canada and New England to consider.

Celebrity: 11-night Boston, Maine & Canada

east coast harbor cruises

Celebrity Cruises is offering its 11-night Boston, Maine & Canada itinerary on four late August and September dates in 2024 and another four in 2025. The round-trip sailings from Boston — in 2024 aboard the 2,852-passenger Celebrity Eclipse, and in 2025 aboard the 2,902-passenger Celebrity Silhouette — call on ports in Maine (Portland and Rockland), Nova Scotia (Halifax and Sydney), Prince Edward Island (Charlottetown) and Quebec (Quebec City, where the ship overnights).

The overnight in Quebec City also offers an opportunity to enjoy one of Canada's most charming cities after dark. Don't miss the narrow cobblestone streets of historic Old Quebec, with its inviting cafes.

Who should go : This round-trip itinerary is a convenient option for couples or friends seeking to experience the highlights of New England and Canada during the prime late-summer and early autumn foliage season. Celebrity's ships are designed with adults in mind. They offer multiple onboard bars and lounges for socializing — and the indoor, adults-only Solarium pool is perfect for relaxation as fall temperatures dip.

Related: Best Canada and New England cruise excursions

Holland America: 11-night Newfoundland & New England Discovery

Not all Canada and New England cruises are timed for leaf peeping. Holland America's 11-night Newfoundland & New England Discovery itinerary in August 2024 on the 1,438-passenger Volendam aims to make the most of the region's late-summer weather.

The cruise embarks in Boston and disembarks in Montreal. In between, Volendam visits seven additional ports (Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Saguenay and Quebec City, Quebec). It offers a comprehensive tour of Canada's Atlantic Provinces and Quebec.

Volendam will sail nine- to 11-night Canada cruises in August and September 2025 as well but with slightly different routings.

Who should go : Holland America attracts retirees and other passengers in the 60-plus age range. The compact Volendam offers a traditional onboard atmosphere, but foodies should know it offers a limited selection of dining venues and lounges. On the plus side, Volendam's pool features a retractable roof in case of cool or rainy weather. This particular itinerary has no ports requiring tender transfers, making all destinations accessible to most passengers with disabilities.

Norwegian: 7-night Canada & New England

east coast harbor cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line has multiple ships cruising a dozen Canada and New England itineraries from Boston, New York and Quebec City in 2024 and 2025. For value, convenience and a megaship experience, check out the seven-night Canada & New England: Bar Harbor & Newport sailings aboard the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Breakaway.

The 2025 seven-night Canada & New England: Bar Harbor and Halifax itineraries aboard the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Getaway are almost identical. Both call on five ports: Newport, Rhode Island; Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Who should go : Norwegian's Breakaway-class ships offer a resort-meets-theme-park experience with a lively onboard vibe appealing to couples, families and groups of friends. That said, the ships lack an indoor pool.

Cruises during the cooler fall months are best suited for those who enjoy the outdoors. Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, and Saint John offers access to the Bay of Fundy's legendary tides. They're also ideal for travelers who appreciate historic architecture. Newport is known for its Gilded Age mansions, and Halifax offers access to the picturesque village of Peggy's Cove.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line vs. Carnival Cruise Line: Battle of the big-ship brands

Oceania: 11-night Canada and New England

Several Oceania Cruises visit New England and Canada in 2024 and 2025, but the 670-passenger Insignia is dedicated to 11-night sailings in September and October of both years. It offers a smaller-ship experience with an emphasis on fine dining.

Insignia sails between New York and Montreal this fall and Boston and Montreal next fall. The port-intensive itineraries include eight or nine ports along the Eastern Seaboard. Cruisers might visit Quebec City and Saguenay in Quebec; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; Saint John, New Brunswick; Portland, Maine; Boston; and Newport, Rhode Island.

Who should go : Oceania's premium cruise experience appeals to couples seeking an onboard ambience that combines culinary excellence with elegant decor and elevated service.

The ship might be small, but it still features two intimate specialty restaurants, a gorgeous grand dining room, a high-end buffet and pool grill, and one of the most decadent afternoon tea services at sea. Standard cabins are on the smaller side, but their modern look and sumptuous beds are appealing. For a splurge, the larger suites will not disappoint discerning travelers.

Princess Cruises: 7-night Canada & New England

Princess Cruises offers multiple seven- to 14-night round-trip and one-way sailings to Canada and New England from New York, Quebec City and Boston in 2024 and 2025.

However, our pick is the seven-night Canada & New England itinerary, which combines visits to four or five ports with a cruise aboard one of Princess' newer Royal-class ships, the 3,360-passenger Enchanted Princess.

Passengers will sail round trip from New York and visit Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Bar Harbor and Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova Scotia. On certain weeks, substitute ports might include Halifax, Nova Scotia, or Rockland, Maine. Weekly sailings take place from late August to mid-October.

Who should go : Princess ships, even the newer vessels, offer a more traditional take on cruising that's popular with couples and groups of friends who enjoy a quieter experience — although the after-dinner sing-a-longs in Crooners piano bar can get lively. Enchanted Princess does lack waterslides, thrill-oriented activities and an indoor pool if those amenities are important to you.

Travelers who enjoy dining at different venues each night will appreciate the ship's five specialty restaurants (for an additional cost) and more than half-dozen complimentary dining venues. Don't miss the excellent Gigi's Pizzeria, a sit-down restaurant.

Related: Best Canada and New England cruise tips to help you enjoy your coastal vacation

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: 11-night Fall Season Colors

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, the 750-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur , debuted in late 2023. In fall 2024, it will sail a series of Canada and New England itineraries from New York and Boston, as well as Montreal.

The 11-night Fall Season Colors sailing on Oct. 1, 2024, is timed to allow passengers to enjoy regional foliage at its peak as the ship sails from Boston to Montreal. Grandeur calls on Portland, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; Sydney, Nova Scotia; Corner Brook, Newfoundland; and Havre-Saint-Pierre, Sept-Iles, Saguenay and Quebec City in Quebec.

Who should go : Regent's all-inclusive luxury cruises — which include airfare, transfers, onboard beverages and dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi and unlimited shore excursions — have correspondingly luxurious prices. So, passengers are mostly affluent professionals and retirees who enjoy the seamless ease of an all-inclusive sailing offering five-star service.

Connoisseurs of fine dining will be in their element with eight onboard restaurants, which include Chartreuse for fine French cuisine and Pacific Rim for flavorful pan-Asian menus. Plus, passengers can indulge their foodie passions with chef-led classes in the onboard Culinary Arts Kitchen.

Seven Seas Grandeur does not offer an indoor pool for cool-weather swims.

Royal Caribbean: 9-night Canada & New England

Royal Caribbean offers Canada and New England cruises from three cities (Boston, Baltimore and Bayonne, New Jersey) in late summer and fall 2024. To truly experience the Eastern Seaboard, try the nine-night Canada & New England Cruise sailing round trip from the Cape Liberty cruise port in Bayonne aboard the 3,798-passenger Liberty of the Seas. The itinerary visits Boston; Portland, Maine; Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Saint John, New Brunswick.

Who should go : Liberty of the Seas is designed to appeal to all ages. A late-August sailing with affordable pricing means a late-summer family getaway is possible, while September and October dates attract more couples and retirees.

Liberty of the Seas doesn't have all the bells and whistles of Royal Caribbean's newer, larger ships. However, it does feature waterslides, a kids aqua park, a FlowRider surf simulator, an ice skating rink, a mini-golf course, an arcade, 11 dining venues, 10 bars and lounges, Broadway-style entertainment and more. It also boasts an adults-only, indoor Solarium pool and several outdoor pools and hot tubs.

Related: 35 Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks that will make your voyage better

Seabourn: 12-night Canada & New England Fall Foliage

Enjoying the region's colorful autumnal landscapes is the primary agenda on Seabourn's 12-night Canada & New England Fall Foliage cruises, scheduled from August to early October 2024 aboard the 458-passenger Seabourn Quest and in September and October 2025 aboard the 458-passenger Seabourn Sojourn.

These sailings between New York and Montreal visit Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Saguenay, Quebec City and Trois-Rivieres in Quebec. (The 2025 sailings substitute a few different Canadian ports.)

Who should go : Seabourn 's all-inclusive small-luxury-cruise experience is reflected in its fares, so these itineraries require a generous travel budget. As a result, passengers are typically financially well-off couples, including international travelers, who appreciate the fleet's private-club-style ambience and personalized service.

All cabins are spacious ocean-facing suites, and 90% of the ships' accommodations feature a veranda. The ships might be small, but they still offer four onboard restaurants, including the line's new Mediterranean restaurant, Solis.

Silversea: 12-night New York to Quebec City

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For upscale, door-to-door, all-inclusive cruising to New England and Canada, Silversea Cruises offers itineraries on a wide selection of summer and fall dates. The most comprehensive trip is a 12-night New York-to-Quebec City itinerary in summer 2024 aboard the 388-passenger Silver Shadow.

The itinerary includes calls on Newport, Rhode Island; Boston; Portland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; and Iles-de-la-Madeleine, Saguenay and Quebec City in Quebec.

Related: Canada and New England cruise packing list: What to pack for every season

Who should go : Silversea passengers are generally wealthy retired couples passionate about cruising on small luxury ships. They appreciate fine wines and elevated dining, such as the French cuisine offered in La Dame, one of four onboard restaurants. Nightlife on Silver Shadow is generally low-key, though there is a small casino.

Silversea's all-inclusive pricing includes airfare, transfers, gratuities (and butler service), complimentary beverages and at least one included shore excursion per port.

Viking: 12-night Eastern Seaboard Explorer

Viking's 12-night Eastern Seaboard Explorer itinerary aboard its identical 930-guest ocean ships, Viking Neptune and Viking Mars, is offered on two dates in September 2024 and four dates in May and September 2025.

The one-way sailing travels from New York to Montreal (or vice versa, with overnights in each city), and the ships visit Quebec City, Saguenay and Gaspe in Quebec; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Boston.

Who should go : Adults-only Viking appeals to cruisers who appreciate a subdued onboard experience centered around learning about a destination via guest lectures and shore excursions. The cruise line's passengers tend to be retirement age or older.

Viking's fans love the ships' serene Scandinavian-inspired decor, complimentary spa thermal area and pricing that includes wine and beer with lunch and dinner, gratuities and one free shore excursion per port. The ships do not have an onboard casino, but two pools (one with a retractable roof) offer relaxation during sea days.

Windstar: 11-night Southeast Canadian Explorations

The 11-night Southeast Canadian Explorations itinerary aboard Windstar Cruises ' 312-guest Star Pride cruises between Montreal and Boston in September and October 2024 and 2025. Sailings call on Quebec City, Gaspe and Cap-aux-Meules in Quebec; Louisbourg and Halifax in Nova Scotia; and Portland in Maine.

Overnights in Quebec City and Portland give passengers more time to explore on land and enjoy regional cuisine in local restaurants for dinner. Some itineraries will swap the extra day in Portland for one in Bar Harbor or add a stop in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.

Who should go : Star Pride is one of the smallest ships offering Canada and New England itineraries, so these sailings are ideal for travelers seeking an intimate cruise experience with more casual camaraderie than most other small-luxury-ship cruises. The ship features five onboard restaurants, and cabins are generously sized (the smallest is 277 square feet).

While cruise fares are not all-inclusive, passengers can pay a daily fee for a package that includes unlimited beer, wine and cocktails, as well as Wi-Fi and crew gratuities.

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Lighthouse, Portland, Maine

Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise

At a glance.

American Cruise Lines

On this 8-day Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise sailing round-trip from Portland, ME aboard the 100-passenger ships, travel to charming ports famous for their shipbuilding, as well as to beautiful national parks with magnificent views and abundant wildlife. Explore quaint historic districts and charming villages, and dine on the freshest, locally sourced seafood prepared by our team of master chefs.

Maine is home to one of most spectacular coastlines in the country, set against a backdrop of a stunning national park with majestic mountains that reach up to the sky and native wildlife that embellishes the landscape. On this enchanting journey, discover the rich maritime heritage that leads you past the magnificent homes of sea captains and through a dynamic working waterfront. Admire the classic schooners of Camden Harbor and stroll through the picturesque gardens of Boothbay Harbor.

Experience the preparing and unveiling of a traditional, old-fashioned lobsterbake luncheon on the shores of Rockland, serenaded by a local blue grass band. Savor delicious clams, mussels, and buttery corn as you enjoy the picturesque New England landscapes.

In the evening, delight in the company of guests and crew as you return to your home away from home. Relax in comfort and admire the view as your small ship winds through scenic rivers, sparkling bays, and historic harbors.

Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise Details

--> day-to-day itinerary.

Portland, Maine

Pre-Cruise: Pre-Cruise Premium Package

American Cruise Lines custom Pre-Cruise Package provides you with a seamless way to experience Portland and easily board the ship. Arrive the day before your cruise and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a 1 night stay at the Marriott Residence, located in the heart of downtown and steps away from the dock.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date.

Portland Lighthouse, Maine

Day 1: Portland, ME

Portland is a region that perfectly blends the present with the past. The Old Port waterfront is made up of working fishing wharves and converted warehouses that now host a variety of eclectic restaurants and shops.

Begin your adventure with a calm afternoon on the sun deck looking for whales and enjoying the stunning natural beauty of Maine’s rugged coast. Cape Elizabeth marks the entrance to the Portland Harbor where you can witness spectacular views as you start your journey with us.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Day 2: Bar Harbor, ME

The natural beauty that surrounds Bar Harbor is accented with ocean cliffs, glacier‐formed lakes and valleys, stunning mountain vistas, and pine forest. This beauty has been captured in the works of Thomas Cole, Frederic Edwin Church, and many other great artists.

Lobstering is a centuries‐old industry that continues to thrive in Bar Harbor as well as boat building, another traditional business that is an important part of the economy. Though Bar Harbor region is best known for its outdoor activities, it is also home to small museums, cultural attractions, and historically significant landmarks.

Bucksport, Maine

Day 3: Bucksport, ME

Explore the historic seaport town of Bucksport, with a beautiful waterfront ornamented with scenic gardens and reflective fountains. Bucksport was a central hub for paper-making industry once upon a time. Though, the town’s paper mill closed in 2014, it now serves as a training center for the Maine Maritime Academy.

The town is also particularly well-known for the Penobscot River and the iconic Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, which is taller than the Statue of Liberty. From this vantage point, view spectacular 360-degree views of the Bay, the Maine countryside, and the distant western mountains.

Camden Harbor, Maine

Day 4: Camden, ME

Full of classic schooners, this charming village is considered the “Tall Ship Capital of Maine.” Enjoy the warm summer sun and refreshing sea breezes as you relax and watch beautiful ships sail into the harbor. Walk Camden’s streets lined with shops and art galleries. Bring your camera to capture sweeping ocean vistas, placid coastlines, and panoramic views of Camden, Penobscot Bay, and the surrounding islands from atop Mount Battie.

Rockland, Maine

Day 5: Rockland, ME

Rockland is an exciting town with a vibrant art culture and thriving lobster industry. Spend your time touring one of Rockland’s unique museums, including the Owls Head Transportation Museum and the Farnsworth Art Museum. Explore downtown Rockland which features an eclectic collection of art galleries or relax on a park bench and watch classic schooners sail through the harbor.

Boothbay Harbor Lighthouse

Day 6: Boothbay Harbor, ME

Known as the “Boating Capital of New England,” Boothbay Harbor overflows with fishing vessels and pleasure crafts in equal numbers. Walk along Boothbay Harbor’s flower-lined streets, dotted with art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. Don’t forget to visit the famous Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

Harbor filled with docked boats

Day 7: Bath, ME

Long known as the “City of Ships,” Bath finds its identity in shipbuilding. From its architecture and cultural offerings to its urban downtown, Bath’s shipbuilding roots define its character. Walk Bath’s streets and admire the seaport’s tree-lined avenues, graced with classic examples of American architecture. Or explore the nationally acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum, which offers a variety of exhibits about Maine’s nautical history.

Day 8: Portland, ME

After a refreshing and relaxing week of cruising Maine’s coast and harbors, end your journey where it began, in idyllic Portland. Enjoy breakfast on board, before departing the ship. You may decide to stay longer to explore this charming city, located in the heart of Casco Bay and steeped in maritime history.

Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise itinerary map

--> Dates & Rates

Dates and rates are effective the date the information was updated on this site. Dates and rates may have changed by the cruise line prior to an update here. Contact Sunstone Tours & Cruises for the latest dates & rates.

Prices displayed are per person based on double occupancy.

Prices subject to change

  • Cruise passage
  • All gourmet meals
  • Breakfast room service
  • Cocktail hour each evening
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American Eagle

American Eagle

At a capacity of just 100 guests, American Eagle offers the best qualities of expedition adventure cruising with the refinement, luxury, stability, and land proximity of river cruising. The design of the ship allows rare access into small ports and ability to travel on almost any river or waterway in the U.S. With land never out of sight, American Eagle is a practical alternative to ocean expeditions, allowing for more time to explore each port in depth.

American Eagle Details …

American Glory

American Glory

The 100-guest American Glory blends the best qualities of expedition adventure cruising with the refinement, luxury, stability, and land proximity of river cruising. Observation and sitting areas will be available at the bow, while a unique Swim/Activity Platform at the stern of the ship features a tender for local exploration. The shallow draft of the vessels allows rare access into small ports and ability to travel on almost any river or waterway.

American Glory Details …

American Independence

American Independence

The 100-passenger American Independence is owned and operated by American Cruise Lines and sails overnight coastal, river, and inland waterways within the continental United States.

American Independence Details …

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Closest Cruise Ports Near Me: Midwest United States

Here's how to choose the best cruise port.

By Robert Schrader | Published on July 19, 2023

If you live in the Midwest United States and Google "cruise ports near me," you might initially feel shocked. As a born-and-bred Midwesterner, I know all too well what an ordeal getting to the coast can be! Whether you fly west to Los Angeles and Seattle, or southward to Houston, New Orleans or Miami, the idea of having to take a flight before you take your cruise can be daunting. I, however, prefer to think of it as exhilarating — here's why.

View of the harbor at Mackinac Island Michigan. North America

The Truth About Cruising From The Midwest

Couple getting Ready to Board at the Airport

There are a lot of reasons to love living in the Midwest — easy access to the ocean is not among them. Growing up, I remember many a long drive to the Gulf or the Atlantic, arguably more than any beach or seafood meal. As an adult, however, I can appreciate that there's opportunity in having to reach one destination en route to another, even as an adult who's spent a fair few living outside the middle of the country.

Indeed, rather than asking, "Where is the closest cruise port to me?" you might instead ask where the coolest one is. Depending on how much time you've allocated for your cruise and the preferences of the people in your party, you can think of the place where you set sail from as a trip-within-a-trip. Before your ship leaves or after it returns to port, make the most of your travels by diving into the city where you'll embark on your journey.

Another factor to keep in mind, beyond convenience and personal preferences, is that not all cruise destinations are accessible from every cruise port. Obviously, if you're cruising to the Caribbean , doing so from the West Coast will be a very circuitous journey indeed. Likewise, the vast majority of Alaska cruises depart from Seattle, or even from ports in Alaska itself, depending upon which one you choose.

Here, too, lies an opportunity. Personally, rather than wondering about the nearest cruise port to me, I sometimes think of the two main decisions I need to make — where I'll leave from and where I'll go — together. Heading to Central America from New Orleans, for example, is a package deal. You can see the stunning beaches of Belize on the front end, then swim through a world of sugar and dough with beignets  at Café du Monde in New Orleans on the back end. Which combination will you choose?

Young Family with a Child Packing for Holiday

The Best Cruise Port To The Caribbean

Sunny Day Beach, Galveston, Texas

It's no surprise that the Caribbean is one of the world's most diverse cruising destinations, with as many ports to visit as there are postcard-perfect beaches. Some of the most popular ports for Caribbean cruises include Galveston (near Houston), New Orleans and the ports of Fort Lauderdale and Miami in South Florida. These ports are just a quick — and often affordable — flight from the Midwestern United States.

The Galveston  cruise port is a popular option, for many reasons. For travelers who are flying, the fact that both of Houston's airports are hubs means you'll have your pick of convenient flights from the Midwest. Driving to the coast? While the Houston area isn't exactly close to most of the Midwest, it's a relatively straight shot. As far as what to do in Galveston? Let's just say that if the beaches (and beach boardwalk) don't entice, the amazing seafood meals and century-old architecture should do the trick.

When it comes to Florida  cruise ports, meanwhile, you've got even more options. If you can plan for a few days here before or after your cruise vacation, you can explore all of South Florida, and maybe even beyond that. With a couple of days, you can explore everywhere from Palm Beach to South Beach; and with a few more than that, you could do a Florida Keys road trip.

Considering the New Orleans  cruise port? This is a personal favorite of mine. Usually, I like to set sail for my destination (typically somewhere in Mexico or Central America, but sometimes farther east) and then return to the Big Easy as my reward for a trip well-taken. Depending on my mood, I may just chill out in the French Quarter, explore churches and cemeteries, stuff myself on Jambalaya or even boat through the nearby bayous.

Las Olas beach in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Where To Begin Your Pacific Pilgrimage

Santa Monica Pier at Sunset, LA

Pacific cruises aren't as typical of a choice for Midwestern travelers for one obvious reason: Los Angeles  is a lot farther than Louisiana! On the other hand, no matter where on America's left coast you hit the open sea from, Pacific cruises are more than worth the journey of getting there. This would be true even if you didn't spend a couple days in the port city but is especially true if you do.

Headed to Mexico? Even though ports in the LA area will never appear in a list of "cruise ports near me" if you live in cities like Chicago or St. Louis, SoCal is more than just a gateway to Mexico's Baja Peninsula or offshore Catalina Island. Sometimes, I like to spend a day or two here and rent a car. From there, I head north along the 101 to Malibu or Santa Barbara, or dig into unique neighborhoods — Thai town and its spicy food are a personal favorite place to stop.

If you have a little longer before or after your cruise, you have endlessly more options. Head south, whether to the OC and Laguna Beach or all the way to San Diego. You could also drive eastward into the desert, whether to the famous Joshua Tree or to somewhere more obscure or even farther north along the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur and beyond. Los Angeles is the city of dreams not just for Hollywood hopefuls, but also for travelers with inspiration and curiosity.

Apart from the Los Angeles cruise port, the most popular place to set sail is probably Seattle, which is a common jumping-off-point for cruises to Alaska. Here, you can spend a night or two and explore exciting neighborhoods like Downtown Seattle and Capitol Hill, or stay longer and hike Mt. Rainier or destinations even farther into the rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Some Alaska cruises even depart from Anchorage. If you fly here, spend some time kayaking near Seward or even enjoy a drive north to Fairbanks before you head for even wilder waters.

Seattle, Washington Waterfront Skyline

The Europe Cruising Quandary

Spain Barcelona Barceloneta Beach City View

While it's technically possible to cruise all the way to Europe from ports on the east coast of the United States, many shorter European cruises actually depart from European ports. Some popular options include Barcelona, the timeless city of Antoni Gaudí where the curious sounds of Catalán  are as audible as more familiar Castellano, and the floating city of Venice, where your cruise vessel isn't the only ship that can take you somewhere exciting.

In this instance, being in the Midwest doesn't actually put you at much of a disadvantage compared to other American travelers. You may need to connect somewhere if you don't live in a city with a major hub (as I don't), but everyone who isn't sailing the whole way to Europe will have to get on a plane . If you think a Europe cruise will float your boat, then, don't stress out about the journey to your destination.

Instead, get excited: Most major European ports are well-connected to regions and cities you're unlikely to visit on your cruise itinerary — this really is two trips in one. Cruising from Athens? Use your days in the ancient city as an opportunity to head to inland Greek destinations like Mount Olympus and the monastery of Meteora, or even to head north into Balkan countries like Albania, Macedonia, Bosnia and beyond.

When "the closest cruise port to me" is on the other side of the ocean, it also invites you to make more adventurous choices. Everyone loves the Mediterranean, for example, by why not head north and sail beneath summer's Midnight Sun? Whether from the fairy tale city of Copenhagen and its Little Mermaid statue or from London where traveling the world can be as simple as visiting a few different neighborhoods, Northern Europe is a hotter cruise destination than its temperatures suggest.

Venice, Italy Rialto Bridge

Wheels Down, Anchor Up

Coco Beach Club Infinity Pool Restaurant Family Walking, Perfect Day at Coco Cay

Written By ROBERT SCHRADER 

Robert Schrader is a writer, photographer and one of the web's original travel bloggers. In 2009 he launched his blog  Leave Your Daily Hell , which has taken him to nearly 100 countries, and has since spun off niche sites focused on Japan, Thailand, Taiwan and Italy. Robert seeks to inform, inspire, entertain and empower travelers through his work, which has been featured in in-flight magazines and digital media outlets around the world. He's excited about travel's post-pandemic rebirth, and in particular the cruise industry's comeback!

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Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

east coast harbor cruises

Moscow is a wonderful city to visit, and travelers on river ship cruise tours to or from St. Petersburg spend a few days in Moscow . This capital city of Russia was our last port on a river cruise tour, and we had about four days to see most of the highlights. Our first day we did an overview driving tour and rode the subway under the Mockba (Moscow) River to Red Square. The next day we toured the State Armory and the Kremlin.

These photos show some of the other highlights you can see with three or four days in Moscow .

The Northern River Terminal is located on the Moscow Canal in the northwest section of Moscow at the Khimki Reservoir.

Most river cruise ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg use the ship as a hotel while in Moscow. Because of traffic, it's often a long drive into the city, but the sights along the way are interesting, and you only have to unpack once for the river cruise.

View of Downtown Moscow from Sparrow Hills

Sparrow Hills is the best place to get a great panoramic view of Moscow. The Sparrow Hills overlook the Mockba River and are near Moscow State University.

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow was founded in 1524, and was once used as a sort of prison for the unwanted wives and sisters of the Tsars. Peter the Great sent both his first wife and his sister to Novodevichy. Since the convent had such famous nuns, it was very wealthy due to the many donations of the Tsars and their families. At one time in the 1700s, the cloister had over 36,000 serfs working in 36 villages. Novodevichy was ravaged by the French armies in 1812, but the brave nuns saved the buildings by disarming the fuses set to blow them up. The Soviets wanted to make the convent into a museum in the early 1920s, but it was again saved.

Novodevichy also has a cemetery with the graves of many famous Russians, including Nikita Khrushchev, Anton Chekhov, Raisa Gorbachev, and Yuri Nikulin.

View of the Mockba River in Moscow, Russia

The Mockba (Moscow) River runs into the Volga via the 79.5 mile long Moscow Canal.

River ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg on the Baltic Waterways embark and disembark at the Northern River Terminal about an hour's drive from the city. The drive time can vary significantly in length because of the heavy Moscow traffic. The river looks peaceful here, as it winds around the cosmopolitan area of Moscow.

Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer (Cathedral of Christ the Savior) in Moscow

The Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer, also known as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, is the largest church in Russia, holding 10,000 worshipers.

The original Cathedral of Christ the Savior was built over 44 years to celebrate the 1812 victory over Napoleon. It was completed in 1883. Stalin had the church destroyed in 1931, but it was rebuilt using mostly private funds in 1999. The new church is a replica of the original. Note that it took 44 years the first time and only 4 years the second to complete the church! Isn't modern technology impressive.

One interesting tidbit is that it took three attempts to blow up the church in 1931. Stalin planned to build a huge Palace of the Soviets on the cleared land, but engineers determined that the land was too boggy. In the 60 years intervening, the space was used for a variety of things, including a year-round swimming pool!

Vendors' Market and Ski Jump at Sparrow Hills in Moscow

The panoramic view of Moscow from Sparrow Hills is a stopover for most tour groups, so we were not surprised to see a large number of vendors. The ski jump was a surprise, but Moscow gets very cold in winter, so winter sports are very popular. This ski jump is near Moscow State University and has a great view of the city. Seeing this ski jump reminded me of the famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump in Oslo, which also has a great view of that northern capital city.

Russian Soldiers' Memorial in Victory Park in Moscow

Matryoshka dolls for sale in moscow.

I thought this display of dolls was beautiful! The Matryoshka nesting dolls range in price from just a few dollars to thousands of dollars.

Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

This small band greeted us at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow. They played a variety of band music and made us all feel very welcome.

Grand Triumphal Arch Celebrates the Victory Over Napoleon in the War of 1812

This arch looks a little like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and it is located near the Victory Park Metro Station in Moscow.

This Grand Triumphal Arch is decorated with the coats of arms from the 48 Russian provinces. To celebrate the victory over France in the war of 1812, it also includes bas-reliefs of the "Expulsion of the French." The arch was originally built in 1834, but has only been on this site since 1968.

It is a little ironic that this arch resembles the Paris Arc de Triomphe , which Napoleon built between 1806 and 1836 to celebrate his French victories.

Moscow Metro Station at the Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square)

This station near Red Square has many statues honoring the workers of Russia.

Moscow Metro Station near Victory Park

The Metro in Moscow is one of its shining industrial achievements. Construction on the Metro was begun in 1931 and continues today. The system has over 165 stations and 155 miles of track. Over 9300 trains, traveling sometimes as fast as 56 mph, navigate the huge system each day. Almost 10 million people ride the Moscow Metro every day, which is more than the New York and London systems combined. We found the Metro to be very efficient, with trains arriving every few minutes.

Navigating the Metro system can be somewhat of a problem for non-Russian speaking riders. Most of the signage is in Cyrillic only, and the stations are quite large. Trying to find the correct exit while walking long distances underground can be challenging.

On our cruise tour, we rode the Metro as a group with our program director from near Victory Park under the Mockba River to Red Square. Several of the group ventured out on their own during our time in Moscow, and many rode the Metro. They all returned with stories of getting lost underground, but none seemed the worse for the experience, and they all loved telling the tales.

Red Square in Moscow

Red Square in Moscow is a must-see for visitors to the capital city of Russia.

The Kremlin in Moscow, Russia

The Kremlin is a favorite of Moscow tourists. Inside these walls are buildings for the government of Russia, cathedrals, and the wonderful State Armory museum.

Taras Bulba Restaurant in Moscow

We enjoyed a traditional Ukrainian lunch at this cute restaurant in Moscow before checking in at our hotel.

Buses Wait for Passengers Outside Museum

River cruise tour groups are usually divided into groups for the duration of the tour. Each group had their own bus when touring.

Military Airplanes at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

Although much of the military museum was indoors, there was quite a collection of planes, helicopters, missile launchers, and tanks outside.

Foreign Ministry Building, One of Moscow's Seven Stalinist-Gothic Skyscrapers

Seven skyscrapers with layers giving them a "wedding cake" appearance dot the Moscow skyline. The style is considered Stalinist-Gothic.

Russian and American War Veterans at the Central Museum of Armed Forces

Meeting with some World War II Russian War veterans was a highlight of our day at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow.

Rocket Launchers and Missiles at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow

The inside of this museum is particularly impressive, but you will need a guide since all of the signage is only in Russian.

Old Arbat Pedestrian Shopping Area in Moscow

We all enjoyed exploring the shops on this mile-long pedestrian shopping area.

Food prices were high in the tourist attraction, with two small pizzas, two small beers, and a bottle of water at an outdoor cafe costing $40. Many of our group ate at the large McDonalds, where prices were more reasonable.

Female Cosmonaut Model at Star City Cosmonaut Training Center near Moscow

Female cosmonauts play an important role in the Russian space program. In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova from Yaroslavl was the first woman in space.

Souvenir Shop in Old Arbat Shopping Area in Moscow

The area of Old Arbat had many English signs to attract the tourist trade.

Centrifuge at Star City Outside Moscow, Russia

This 18 meter centrifuge is the world's largest. The centrifuge weighs over 30000 tons, and the maximum load is 30 G, but most tests are run at 3 or 4 G.

A centrifuge ride is the first test for a cosmonaut, whose entire training school takes from five to eight years. The centrifuge can simulate the extreme force of gravity that cosmonauts (and astronauts) face when going into space. A centrifuge training session lasts about 30 minutes, and the trainee experiences both the centrifugal force as well as the spin of the pod he/she is riding in. Just typing this makes me a little queasy!

Cosmonaut's Bathroom Facilities on First Space Flights at Star City

Just like in the USA, everyone who visits the Star City cosmonaut training center near Moscow wants to know how cosmonauts "go to the bathroom". They have more sophisticated equipment today, but this contraption from the early space flights is fairly self explanatory.

Star City Tank Used for Cosmonaut Weightlessness Training near Moscow

This 12-meter deep pool is used to simulate weightlessness training. The pool is flooded and the cosmonauts perform repair tasks on the model of the International Space Station. SCUBA diving underwater is very similar to the weightless experience the cosmonauts experience when working in outer space.

Mir Space Station Replica at Star City near Moscow

The original Mir disintegrated when it fell to earth in 2001. Mir, which means peace in Russian, was launched in 1986.

Marvel Paull with Statue of Yuri Gagarin at Star City near Moscow

Yuri Gagarin was the first man in space, and the Star City Cosmonaut training center was named after him in 1968.

River Cruise Passengers with Yuri Onufrienko, Russian Cosmonaut at Star City

In case you can't tell, Yuri is the one in the middle. My famous traveling mother, Marvel Paull, is on the left and Dick, a cruise friend is on the right.

A highlight of our day in Star City was a visit with Yuri Onufrienko , a Russian cosmonaut who spent extended time in space at the Mir space station in 1996 and the International Space Station in 2001-2002. Yuri patiently took many questions from our small inquisitive group.

Cosmonaut Space Suit at Star City near Moscow

Cosmonauts sit in this position on take off. Thanks to Jerry G. for the tip about the sign. It says, "Don't touch!"

Stained Glass Window at Star City near Moscow

Program directors at farewell dinner in moscow.

After 16 days of discovery, learning, and fun, we had a farewell dinner with the six Program Directors - Evgeny, Olga, Vladimir, Svetlana, Violetta, and Marina - in Moscow.

The Kremlin is a triangular, walled citadel in the center of Moscow. The Kremlin is considered by most to be the heart of the city. First conceived in the 12th century, the Kremlin (which means fortress) was expanded by Tsar Ivan III (Ivan the Great) during the 15th century. His architects designed the magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption and the Faceted Palace, and the Kremlin was an interesting mix of both Russian and Renaissance styles. During the Soviet time of the 1930s, many of the Kremlin buildings were destroyed or vandalized, and the complex remained closed to the public until 1955.

Today the Kremlin is home to the Russian President and his administration. Many buildings are open to the public, but you may need to be with a guide (check in advance).

I visited the Kremlin when in Moscow on a Russian Waterways cruise tour from St. Petersburg.

The Kremlin was also one of the 21 finalists for the New Seven Wonders of the World.  

Red Square in Moscow, Russia

Red Square's name has nothing to do with Communism or Soviet Russia. The old Russian word for "beautiful" and "red" was the same; the square was supposed to be called "Beautiful Square". Red Square has been the center of Moscow activity since the 16th century when the Tsar cleared the area and allowed vendors, shoppers, and businesses to fill the square. Today this square is surrounded by the Moscow Kremlin, the State Historical Museum, GUM Shopping Mall , and St. Basil's Cathedral .

Many of the important events of the last three hundred years in Russia have been marked by parades or demonstrations in Red Square. Anyone who enters Red Square will have memories from TV or movie reels of this magnificent public square. Those of us who grew up during the Cold War era can remember the parades of soldiers, tanks, and other armaments past Lenin's Tomb just outside the Kremlin Wall. The World War II generation remembers Red Square as the site of a huge victory celebration at the end of the war.

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Ten of the best small-ship cruises

Not a fan of mega-ships our cruise expert has picked the best boutique sailings to keep things exclusive and adventurous.

Nassau, Bahamas

T here’s something special about small-ship cruising. You’ll feel a deeper connection to the sea, and there’s a certain pleasure from being docked in chic little ports among the superyachts or anchored in a remote bay far from the crowds. Of course, there won’t be Broadway shows and a choice of restaurants, but simplicity is all part of the appeal. Here are ten of the best small-ship cruises for this year and next.

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1. Authentic Caribbean

Le Ponant sailing yacht

Explore some of the tiniest islands in the Caribbean on Ponant’s smallest ship: the swish, recently refurbished sailing yacht Le Ponant, which carries just 32 passengers. Sail from Marigot on St Martin to Prickly Pear Cays on Anguilla, St Barts, Nevis, Falmouth Bay on Antigua, Barbuda and the chic Îles des Saintes in Guadeloupe — in other words some of the most seductive islands in the region. On board you can expect the fine dining and service that comes from the ship’s partnership with Relais & Châteaux. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £5,550pp, including excursions, departing on March 8, 2025 (uk.ponant.com). Fly to St Maarten and back from Guadeloupe

2. Croatia under sail

Kairos

Explore Croatia in detail on the classic schooner Kairos, which sails out of medieval Trogir to Vis, Hvar and Korcula, as well as lesser-known islands and anchorages, depending on wind speed and direction. With just 16 passengers and seven crew on board, this is small-ship luxury at its best — and you don’t have to help to sail the boat unless you want to do so. When you’re at anchor, jump straight into the warm Adriatic. Evenings are spent either in lively towns or anchored in remote bays. Details Seven nights’ full board from £3,025pp, departing on August 10 (venturesailholidays.com). Fly to Split

3. Butlers in the Bahamas

The Bahamas

This 12-night cruise zigzags from New York to Bermuda for an overnight stay, through the Bahamian islands of San Salvador, Exuma and Honeymoon Harbour on tiny Gun Cay, then on to Miami before ending back in Nassau. Expect luxury all the way, with a butler service, an open bar and helicopter trips, plus a submarine and water toys to play on when the ship’s marina platform is down, which is often. Scenic Eclipse carries just 228 passengers, with the vibe of a swish private yacht in its glossy lounges and smart, high-ceilinged cabins. Details Twelve nights’ all-inclusive from £6,914pp, including flights, private transfers, tips, wi-fi and excursions, departing on October 12 (scenic.co.uk)

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4. turkey as you please.

Salamander

Muster a group of 12 and you can charter a gulet for a blissful week exploring the Turquoise Coast of Turkey. Sailing from Bodrum, you’ll travel on the gleaming wooden Salamander, which comes with a crew of four, including a chef. Visit pretty fishing villages and drop anchor in pine-scented bays surrounded by green mountains for swimming off the boat, as well as playing on the water toys. On board are six en suite cabins and plenty of lounging space on deck, where you’ll also have meals. Details Seven nights’ full board (excluding two dinners) from £22,870 for 12, including transfers and house wine, departing on June 24 (salamandervoyages.com). Fly to Bodrum

5. New year in the Seychelles

Praslin

Spend more than a week over the new year pottering around the dreamy Seychelles on Emerald Cruises’ sleek, 100-passenger Azzurra, visiting Praslin; rugged Curieuse, home to Aldabra giant tortoises; La Digue, location of the much-photographed Anse Source d’Argent beach; and Aride Island Nature Reserve, a breeding site for seabirds. You can snorkel and paddleboard off the back of the ship, which has a distinct superyacht feel thanks to an infinity pool and lovely alfresco dining area. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £5,445pp, including flights, tips, wi-fi and some activities, departing on December 29 ( emeraldcruises.co.uk )

• Ten river cruises for adventurous travellers

6. Amazon adventure

A jaguar in the Amazon rainforest

Trace the northeast coastline of South America on a 19-night expedition on Swan Hellenic’s smart SH Vega, which carries 158 passengers. You’ll start in Barbados and head to Trinidad, but this is no ordinary Caribbean cruise — the next stop is Georgetown in Guyana, then it’s the volcanic Salvation Islands, a former penal colony off the coast of French Guiana now returned to nature. From the Brazilian town of Iquiqui you’ll head into the Amazon rainforest in search of jaguars and pink river dolphins. While in Brazil there’s also a chance to see the rippling white sand dunes ofLençois Maranhenses National Park and the Unesco world heritage town of Olinda before arriving in colourful Bahia. Details Nineteen nights’ all-inclusive from £6,980pp including wi-fi, taxes, excursions and a night in Barbados, departing on October 12, 2025 (swanhellenic.com). Fly to Barbados

7. Maritime history on east-coast US

Sag Harbor

Sail from Boston to New York City on American Cruise Lines’ 90-passenger American Independence, built for the shallow inlets and rivers of the US east coast. You’ll learn about the history of Boston and call at arty, boho coastal towns packed with maritime history. Plymouth was the first pilgrim settlement, while yachtie Newport is known for its opulent seaside estates and lobster. Old Saybrook, settled in 1635, is one of oldest towns in Connecticut, while Sag Harbor is famed for its art galleries and endless beaches. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £5,999pp, including flights, excursions and a night in a hotel pre-cruise, departing on September 29 (fredholidays.co.uk)

8. Tall ship Atlantic crossing

Star Flyer

Crossing the Atlantic under sail is special; you’ll have days to commune with the ocean, leaving the stresses of everyday life behind. Join the 170-passenger tall ship Star Flyer in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria — the city from which Columbus set sail in 1492. There’s a stop at the Canary island of La Gomera, then 13 days at sea as you head west to the Tropics, making landfall at St Maarten. On board you can help the crew with the sails, splash around in the pool, have a Thai massage and — on this sailing, which has a yoga theme — practise your sun salutations. Details Fifteen nights’ full board from £2,015pp, departing on November 15 (starclippers.co.uk). Fly to Gran Canaria and back from St Maarten

9. Tempting Tahiti

Moorea

Discover Tahiti in all its high-definition beauty on the small ship Star Breeze, which carries 312 and is based in Papeete. You’ll visit dreamy islands including Bora Bora, Huahine, Moorea and Raiatea on a seven-night meander through French Polynesia, with swimming in turquoise lagoons, rainforest hikes and visits to vanilla plantations and ancient sacred sites on the agenda. One night there’s a special dinner on a private island, followed by a fire-dancing display under the stars. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £6,200pp, including flights and a night in a hotel pre-cruise, departing on October 17 (windstarcruises.com; book by June 30)

10. Wellness in the Cyclades

Milos

Potter round the lesser-visited Greek islands of the Cyclades on the 50-passenger Elysium, a tiny ship that can anchor in smaller harbours, away from the mainstream cruise ships. There’s an emphasis on healthy Greek food for meals onboard, and you can choose the most inviting taverna in town for either lunch or dinner each day. A wellness coach travels on every cruise to help balance mind and body, with yoga, meditation and hiking on offer. On a seven-night Divine Cyclades cruise you’ll sail from Athens and visit islands including Delos, Naxos, Milos, Serifos and Kythnos, as well as big-hitters such as Santorini and Ios. Details Seven nights’ half-board from £2,530pp, departing on September 7 (elixir.cruises). Fly to Athens

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Moscow (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Moscow cruise port

Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-04-25 14:50

Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with St Petersburg and Sevastopol .

Being Russian Federation's capital, Moscow is a major economic, political, scientific and cultural center, as well as Europe's biggest city.

According to Forbes 2013, Moscow has been ranked as the 9th most expensive city in the world by Mercer and has one of the largest urban economies, being ranked as an alpha global city according to Globalization and World Cities Research Network. It is also one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. Moscow is the northernmost and the coldest megacity and metropolis on the Earth. It's home to Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing European structure; the Federation Tower, the tallest European skyscraper; and the Moscow International Business Center. 

Moscow is situated on Moskva River in the Central Federal District of European Russia, which makes it the most populated inland city in the world. Moscow city is well known for architecture, particularly its historic buildings like Saint Basil's Cathedral. With over 40% of its territory covered by greenery, it's one of the greenest capitals and major cities in Europe and the world. Moscow is the seat of power of the Russian Government, being the site of Moscow Kremlin, a medieval city-fortress that is now the residence of the President of Russia. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square are among the several World Heritage Sites in the city. 

Moscow has 2 passenger terminals, North River Terminal (Rechnoy vokzal) and South River Terminal. The regular ship routes and cruises along Moskva and Oka rivers are used mostly for entertainment. North River Terminal (1937-built) is currently the main hub for long-range routes along the river. There are 3 freight ports that serve Moscow.

In late-July 2021 the city announced plans to incorporate a fleet (unspecified number) of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transportation network from summer 2022, the goal being to reduce the dependence on cars.

  • The boats are designed with length ~22 m (72 ft), passenger capacity 42, modern amenities (Wi-Fi, USB charging points, tables for working commuters), spaces for storing scooters and bicycles.
  • Moscow Transport confirmed that two routes (with max daily capacity ~16,000 passengers) have already been mapped out.
  • Passengers will be able to pay via bank cards, the city’s Troika card (smart card for travel by any public transportation) or biometric payment cards. Those with monthly/yearly public transit tickets will use the boats at no extra cost.
  • The new electric ferry service is up to 5 times faster (in comparison to other city public transports) and ~2 times faster than by car.

Moscow cruise terminal

Moscow's cruise terminal is called North River Terminal or River Station  ("Rechnoy Vokzal" / "речной вокзал").

The terminal was opened in 1937 and is one of 2 passenger terminals (the other being South River Terminal) of the city's river transport. North River Terminal is the main hub for long-range (including cruise) shipping routes. 

South River Terminal (above photo) was opened in 1985.

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2018 FIFA World Cup Games to Be Shown Aboard Princess Cruises Ships

2018 FIFA World Cup Games to Be Shown Aboard Princess Cruises Ships

Princess Cruises passengers sailing all over the world will spectate and cheer on their favourite teams during the single largest tournament of the...

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east coast harbor cruises

Best East Coast Vacation Spots from New England to South Beach

P lanning a trip to the East Coast? You’ll find iconic Maine lighthouses, lobster shacks and Florida’s sandy beaches among the many east coast vacation spots. The entire Atlantic coast is lined with beautiful beaches and  barrier islands add another layer of serenity.

Inland, a mix of big cities and small towns await exploration. For road trip buffs, a drive along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean is a bucket list experience. If you’re looking for the best east coast getaways, look no further. From South Beach to New England, these USA east coast vacation spots deliver a little bit of everything.

Art, Beaches and Culture Await in Miami, Florida

A mecca for those seeking an east coast getaway, Miami, Florida offers cultural experiences, water sports, art and more. In South Beach, family-friendly parks provide beachfront sports fields and water playgrounds.

For a fun family adventure, rent a clear kayak or book a tour with Clear View Kayaks . Since the kayaks are transparent, you can see the abundant sea life below. Experiences range from an easy paddle down Indian Creek and historic Collins Canal to a longer guided trip to Monument Island, where you’ll be provided with snorkel equipment to explore the crystal-clear water.

Add a touch of culture to your Miami experience with a food tour in Little Havana. An excellent place to learn about Cuban Culture, Little Havana is home to many Cuban restaurants and cafes as well as cigar shops and art galleries.  A food tour  will treat your tastebuds to Cuban classics including Cuban sandwiches, Ropa Vieja, Cuban coffee and Key Lime pie.  

Hello Hollywood

Just north of Miami, Florida’s beach town version of Hollywood features a 2.2-mile pedestrian boardwalk along the Atlantic Ocean and Hollywood Beach. As you stroll, treat yourself to ice cream and pick up a memento at one of the souvenir shops along the boardwalk. For some pedaling fun, choose from bike rentals at Sun and Fun Cycles  which include low-riders, adult tricycles, surreys, bikes, and special needs equipment.

Art lovers enjoy the must-see Downtown Hollywood Mural Project  featuring stunning artwork in 31 building-side murals and 11 sidewalk murals. For more art, spend some time exploring Hollywood’s Art and Culture Center .

For access to refreshing pools, sunbathing and tropical cocktails, book a stay at the Margaritaville Beach Resort .  Located in front of the boardwalk, the property boasts eight dining options and a FlowRider surfing simulator.

Read More: Blast Off with 10 Fun Things to Do in Cocoa Beach and the Space Coast

Find Southern Charm in South Georgia

Whether you crave a barrier island experience or prefer to explore historical sites, Georgia has you covered. A long time favorite vacation destination for those in search of the ultimate in Southern charm, Savannah delivers in abundance.

In the city center, the 30-acre Forsyth Park is one of Savannah’s most iconic sites. Here moss-laden trees support the charm of this Southern gem. And don’t miss the fountain – the most photographed spot in the city.

To explore the city’s historic district, hop aboard a  trolley tour . The Old Town Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley combines a guided tour with plenty of time for personal excursions at each site.

A summer family vacation to Savannah would not be complete without trying an ice cream from Leopold’s Ice Cream – one of the USA’s oldest ice cream parlors. The lines are long but worth it. Grab a cone or dine in for one of their famous sundaes.

More Southern Charm on Georgia’s Barrier Islands

Situated on the east coast of Georgia,  St. Simons Island  is one of the state’s most beautiful barrier islands. The largest of Georgia’s Golden Isles, here stunning white sand beaches co-exist with miles of salt marshes as moss-draped trees line the island’s winding roads.

Enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, kayaking and swimming. The island also features stunning resorts and golf courses.History buffs enjoy exploring at sites like Christ Church or the St. Simons Lighthouse – the oldest working lighthouse in the USA.

Explore the Bounty of Charleston, South Carolina

Colorful houses in pastel shades line the city streets in Charleston, South Carolina alongside quaint restaurants and historic inns . Horses add to the scene as they clip-clop along the cobbled streets while guides share the depth of history oozing from this Southern charmer. For those who choose to vacation, there’s much to see and do. This is foodie heaven with a rich seafood scene along with a bounty of elevated comfort foods.

For those intrigued by cultural finds, a stop in the Charleston Market reveals hand-woven baskets by women of the Gullah community. The Charleston Harbor buzzes with plentiful activities including wildlife watching, fishing and sunset sailing cruises . Nearby on Fort Sumter, Civil War history comes to life. And for military buffs, the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier is a must-see.

Liven Up Your Summer Vacation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If you’re seeking an action-packed east coast vacation spot, South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach might be the ideal place for you. At its center, the 1.2-mile Myrtle Beach Boardwalk supports popular attractions including the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel , Pier 14, Second Avenue Pier, Ripley’s 5D Theater and Ripley’s Haunted Adventure.

Home to amenity packed resorts including several with water parks,  Myrtle Beach provides an ideal summer vacation destination for busy families. A bustling beach town, it’s also a favorite of beachgoers seeking a lively nightlife scene.

Nags Head in North Carolina’s Outer Banks

Centrally located among the towns of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Nags Head makes an ideal summer vacation destination or a weekend getaway. The largest won in the Outer Banks, Nags Head is a quintessential beach town. Nags Head is fun for families with activities like mini-golf, family-friendly restaurants and one of the best beaches in North Carolina.

Shoppers enjoy the outlet malls while art and history buffs enjoy exploring Gallery Row and the Historic District recognized by its unpainted traditional cedar shake beach cottages.

Nags Head is one of the few towns on the Outer Banks where you can find a good selection of hotels , including resorts. Other forms of accommodation include vacation rentals along with bed and breakfasts.

Get to Know Delaware’s Treasures

Located on the Delaware Shores, Rehoboth Beach boasts an award-winning boardwalk, fabulous hotels , specialty stores, tax-free shopping and scores of restaurants. With 30 miles of unspoiled Delaware coastline, nature-based outdoor activities are plentiful. Possible adventures include hiking in state parks, kayaking, nature cruises, ferry rides, surfing, skimboarding, paddleboarding and sailing. Add to that historic sites and live performing arts and you have yourself an intriguing vacation spot.  

A short walk from Rehoboth Beach, neighboring Dewey Beach sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth Bay. Dewey Beach offers beach sports and activities along with great restaurants, life music, dancing and a world-famous nightlife scene.

The Rehoboth Beach and Dewey area offers year-round experiences. Spring and fall sidewalk sales are held in May and October. There’s a Scarecrow Trail & Show in September & October. And in October, the annual Sea Witch® Festival arrives along with costumes and parades.

History, Charm and Sailing in Annapolis, Maryland

For a unique and engaging year round vacation destination, consider visiting Annapolis, Maryland . Home to the U.S. Naval Academy, brick-paved streets lined with vintage storefronts and 18th century brick houses give this bayside city plenty of charm. Historical sites are revealed at every turn in places like the Maryland State House that dates back to 1779 earning it the distinction as the country’s oldest statehouse still in continual use.

On Main Street, well-preserved buildings spanning four centuries house restaurants, bars, galleries and shops. Don’t miss Annapolis Ice Cream Company which has been voted the town’s best ice cream for 18 years.  

Annapolis is a sailing haven and there’s no better way to join the locals than with a sunset sail on the Chesapeake bay aboard a Schooner Woodwind. And be sure to indulge in crabs, a Maryland staple.

With its close proximity to Washington DC, day trips to the Smithsonian add another dimension to your vacation experience.

Experience the Jersey Shore at Point Pleasant Beach

Despite what you might see on TV, the Jersey Shore does have family friendly destinations and Point Pleasant is one of those. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk , which stretches a mile along the shore, offers some good old-fashioned fun with an aquarium, arcade, amusement park, three mini-golf courses and a 4,000-square-foot fun house.

For the shoppers in the family, Point Pavilion Antique Centre  is stocked with furniture, jewelry, toys and old records. Couple that with Point Pleasant’s Vintage Automobile Museum of New Jersey  for a retro-themed getaway.

Plan a Weekend Getaway on Block Island, Rhode Island

Sail into Block Island on the Block Island Ferry for an idyllic weekend getaway. The weekend fun begins at Ballard’s – one of the top bars in Block Island. More than a bar, Ballard’s has everything you need for a day of fun in the sun with its private beach along with lounge chair and umbrella rentals. With tiki bars, live music and waitress service, you may never need to leave your place in the sand.

If you do choose to move beyond Ballard’s, check out the Mohegan Bluffs. Standing 200 feet above sea level, the bluffs provide some of the best views on the island. Be sure to visit North Light, Block Island’s historic lighthouse.

Whale Watching on Cape Cod in Massachusetts

For those who enjoy the search for wildlife, New England whale watching makes an ideal summer vacation or possibly a weekend getaway from Boston. May through October offers the best odds for spotting humpback, finback and minke whales as they feed along the New England coast.

If you’re planning a summer vacation that includes whale watching, Cape Cod should be on your agenda. Cape Cod’s unique shape reaches toward whale territory. Located at the tip of the Cape Cod peninsula, Provincetown is one of the most popular whale hub. Nearby in Hyannis, whale watching tours  leave from the local harbor. You can also hop a high-speed ferry 30 miles offshore to Nantucket for a visit to the renowned Nantucket Whaling Museum.

Getaway to Martha’s Vineyard

Sitting in the Atlantic just south of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard , has been a longtime New England summer colony. Harbor towns and lighthouses dot the landscape of sandy beaches and farmland. Accessible only by sea or air, this renowned Massachusetts island has plenty of outdoor activities including biking, hiking trails and boating. Don’t miss the iconic carousel in Oak Bluffs nestled among Carpenter Gothic cottages.

Spend a Week Leaf Peeping in New England

Who says your east coast vacation has to happen in summer. As the red, gold and orange hues of fall foliage appear, there’s no better place to leaf peep than New England.

Filled with charming small towns, Connecticut, New Hampshire and Vermont provide the ideal vacation spots for sipping apple cider and basking in the colorful fall foliage landscapes.

In Connecticut, meander along the hiking trails in Wadsworth Falls State Park to the park’s namesake waterfall while taking in the brilliant fall foliage.

Venture up to the White Mountains of New Hampshire to explore more hiking trails draped in color. Nestled among the lush vegetation of the White Mountains, the picturesque small town of Jackson delivers natural and man-made beauty in abundance.  Must-see attractions include the 1876 covered bridge and the Jackson Library, which is housed in the historic Trickey Barn.

Take a scenic drive through Vermont’s small towns amid the brillialnt fall foliage colors before settling in for the evening in one of the state’s many quaint bed and breakfasts .

Explore Maine’s Rocky Seashore

From the lobster shacks to the lighthouses, Maine provides an ideal vacation spot especially in the summer months. Start your explorations in Portland. Set on a peninsula extending into Casco Bay, Portland is Maine’s largest city. Converted warehouses now house restaurants teeming with seafood delights and locally owned boutiques to satisfy your shopping urges.

Moving to Maine’s central coast, rock formations along the seashore make for unique sightseeing. Seeking out Maine’s famous lighthouses adds to the road trip experience. In small towns like Boothbay Harbor, outdoor activities include whale watching cruises, lobster boat adventures and kayaking,

Further north, you’ll reach Bar Harbor – the gateway to Acadia National Park. Base your explorations in Bar Harbor where dozens of eateries serve Maine favorites including lobster rolls and blueberry pies. Quaint hotels provide a good night’s sleep before the next day’s adventures.

Embrace Adventure in Acadia National Park

Perched at the edge of Maine, Acadia National Park skirts 60 miles of the Atlantic coastline. The park includes Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula, and additional outer islands including the park’s most remote, Isle au Haut, accessible only by ferry. Within Acadia National Park you’ll find 33 miles of scenic motor roads , 45 miles of carriage roads and more than 150 miles of hiking trails. Favorite park pastimes include biking, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking and whale watching from the shoreline.

Find Your Urban Vacation Spot in New York City

If your ideal vacation spot requires an urban atmosphere, you won’t find any place more urban than NYC. The city that never sleeps also never stops entertaining. From taking in the view atop the Empire State Building to exploring the paths of Central Park, there’s always something to discover.

Hudson River parks including Little Island and the High Line contribute to outdoor adventures within NYC. And when night falls, the lights of Broadway beckon with live entertainment. Top that off with food from every culture and your NYC vacation will take you around the globe!

Planning a trip to the East Coast? You’ll find iconic Maine lighthouses, lobster shacks and Florida’s sandy beaches among the many east coast vacation spots. The entire Atlantic coast is lined with beautiful beaches and  barrier islands add another layer of serenity. Inland, a mix of big cities and small towns await exploration. For road trip buffs, a drive along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean is a bucket list experience. If you’re looking for the best east coast getaways, look no further. From South Beach to New England, these USA east coast vacation spots deliver a little bit of...

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  4. North America East Coast Cruises 2024-2026

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  1. East Coast Cruises Ports & Vacation Destinations

    Find the best East Coast cruise ports. Experience a vacation traveling from the edge of America to destinations like the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada and beyond. ... Explore historical sites like the Inner Harbor, one of the nation's oldest seaports, or Lexington Market, which has sold fresh produce and delicious meals since 1782. ...

  2. New England Cruises

    Discover why New England cruises make the best East Coast Vacations. Enjoy cruises from New York, Boston, Maine & more. Start your adventure today! Skip to Main Content. 800-460-4518 call us; ... Sag Harbor, and Newport. View Cruise Details. Grand New England Cruise. Boston, MA to Boston, MA 16 Days / 15 Nights. From. $11,820.

  3. East Coast Cruises: Best Cruises to the US East Coast

    Historic Cities. East coast cruises will take you to some of the most beautiful and historic cities in the United States and Canada. In Boston, visit the Freedom Trail and see sites like the Paul Revere House. In Halifax, tour the historic properties of the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

  4. America's East Coast Small Ship Cruises

    This amazing 16-day Canadian Maritimes and St. Lawrence Seaway cruise aboard the 210-guest Pearl Mist explores the most magnificent regions of Canada and Maine. Peruse the picturesque downtown of Bar Harbor, before visiting the stunning natural landscapes of Acadia National Park. View cruise details ….

  5. East Coast Cruises 2024

    Complete Southeast Cruise. Washington, D.C. to St. Petersburg, FL. 21 Nights. November 20, 2024. From $13,225. American Glory. Book Now More Info. Next Page ». Book your 2024 East coast cruises on the Mid-Atlantic Inland Passage, Hudson River, Chesapeake Bay, and several New England destinations!

  6. East Coast & Intracoastal Waterway River Cruises

    Our southern U.S. river cruises bring guests to unique, historic, and bucket-list destinations such as Tangier Island, Charleston, SC, Cambridge, MD, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and St. Augustine, FL. Read More. For a limited time, save up to $1,500 on select American Revolution Cruises and receive Free Airfare.*. View Itinerary Details.

  7. Maine Coast & Harbors

    Arrive the day before your cruise and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a 1 night stay at the Marriott Residence, located in the heart of downtown and steps away from the dock. Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

  8. East Coast Inland Passage Cruise

    Explore the world-famous Inner Harbor, historic neighborhoods, and the areas most noted landmarks such as the Star-Spangled Banner waving over Fort McHenry. Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 460-4518 for pricing and availability.

  9. Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise

    Call 1.406.541.2677. Start Planning My Trip. On this 8-day Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise roundtrip Portland aboard the American Glory, explore Maine's breathtaking coastline, framed by a backdrop of mountains teeming with native wildlife. Immerse in the region's maritime heritage in a trip past the grand homes of sea captains and bustling ...

  10. Cruises out of the East Coast

    Find and plan your next cruise out of the East Coast on Cruise Critic through our Find a Cruise tool, offering sailings into 2025. Compare the latest and lowest prices for your next cruise vacation.

  11. Maine Coast & Harbors Cruises

    Maine Coast & Harbors - Independence. Book Now Request More Info. or call 800.578.1479. Aboard this Main Coast & Harbors Cruise, you will have the opportunity to see majestic national parks, scnic rivers, sparkling bays and granite mountains!

  12. East Coast Cruises

    12-14 Day Cruise. St. Lawrence River Cruise: Canada to The East Coast. From Toronto, set sail on a luxury French ship for unspoiled Canada and the North American coast. Sail Canada's scenic wildlands, cosmopolitan cities and historic seaport villages before ending in Massachusetts. From $10610 USD. Sep Oct Nov.

  13. 11 best cruises to Canada and New England

    Norwegian Cruise Line has multiple ships cruising a dozen Canada and New England itineraries from Boston, New York and Quebec City in 2024 and 2025. For value, convenience and a megaship experience, check out the seven-night Canada & New England: Bar Harbor & Newport sailings aboard the 3,963-passenger Norwegian Breakaway.

  14. East Coast of US Small Ship Cruises

    Explore the top-rated East Coast of US small ship cruises below. Adventure Life works with the top-rated small ship cruise lines visiting Newport, Boston, Portland, New York, and Bar Harbor, and we help match you with the perfect small ship and cruise itinerary for your specific tastes and needs.There are countless advantages to exploring on a small ship cruise versus a large cruise ship ...

  15. U.S. Cruise: East Coast

    The best East Coast Cruise traveling through Bar Harbor through Maine is offered now with National Geographic Expeditions. See the Penobscot Bay, Monhegan and more

  16. Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise

    Book this Trip. or call us toll-free 1-888-815-5428. On this 8-day Maine Coast and Harbors Cruise sailing round-trip from Portland, ME aboard the 100-passenger ships, travel to charming ports famous for their shipbuilding, as well as to beautiful national parks with magnificent views and abundant wildlife. Explore quaint historic districts and ...

  17. East Coast of US Cruises & Tours

    Sep 30, 2025. Join the 8-day Hudson River Fall Foliage cruise aboard American Glory from New York. Witness vibrant autumn colors along the river and explore …. 0. Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise. $6640. 8. Aug 26, 2024. On this 8-day Maine Coast & Harbors Cruise roundtrip Portland aboard the American Glory, discover Maine's stunning coastline ...

  18. American Cruise Lines

    One-stop shopping - Book complete cruise vacations with flights, transfers, pre- and post-cruise stays, onboard accommodations, activities and more. For Cruise Dates, More Itineraries and Bookings. Call Our Dedicated Cruise Desk at. 877-287-2835. Exclusive Onboard Credit Offer: Onboard credit (OBC) is $100 per stateroom for new bookings for ...

  19. Cruises to Bar Harbor, Maine

    Cruise to Bar Harbor, Maine. Bar Harbor, Maine. New England charm, scenic vistas and outdoor adventure have kept visitors returning to Bar Harbor for over 100 years. Unwind on the beach, and take in view of the soaring granite cliffs. Stretch your legs with a relaxed walk along the Shore Path.

  20. Cruise Ports Near Me: Midwest United States

    While it's technically possible to cruise all the way to Europe from ports on the east coast of the United States, many shorter European cruises actually depart from European ports. Some popular options include Barcelona, the timeless city of Antoni Gaudí where the curious sounds of Catalán are as audible as more familiar Castellano, and the floating city of Venice, where your cruise vessel ...

  21. Moscow

    The Mockba (Moscow) River runs into the Volga via the 79.5 mile long Moscow Canal. River ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg on the Baltic Waterways embark and disembark at the Northern River Terminal about an hour's drive from the city.

  22. Ten of the best small-ship cruises

    1. Authentic Caribbean. Le Ponant sailing yacht. DIRK MEUSSLING. Explore some of the tiniest islands in the Caribbean on Ponant's smallest ship: the swish, recently refurbished sailing yacht Le ...

  23. Moscow (Russia) cruise port schedule

    Cruise Port schedule, live map, terminals, news. Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 ...

  24. Boat tours and river cruises through Moscow: where to take them

    On this map you can see the details of the longest and most classic of the Flotilla Radisson boat tours: 2. Companies that do boat tours on the Moskva River. There are many companies that do cruises on the Moskva River, but the 4 main ones are: Capital River Boat Tour Company (CCK) Mosflot. Flotilla Radisson.

  25. Best East Coast Vacation Spots from New England to South Beach

    And for military buffs, the. USS Yorktown. aircraft carrier is a must-see. If you're seeking an action-packed east coast vacation spot, South Carolina's Myrtle Beach might be the ideal place ...